It's probably been said a zillion times, however there are just so many suspension threads!

 

I can't speak about baggers (I just got one) but on my wg the longer shocks on the rear made for a tons better ride and had no ill effects on the front, and have about 100k on them. they are progressives, can't remember the pt #. I read that longer rears can cause the bike to steer quicker, and shorter can cause slower turning due to overal rake angle changes. If that is so, I didn't notice any changes except for the BIG difference in ride quality on the *** end.

 

Our Harleys have a long wheelbase and can easily deal with a one inch change in shock length. I'm not sure my Buell would be so happy!

 

I ended up with a set of supershox on the back about 3/4" lower and will do progressive mono-tube standard length in front this week. then it's out to the Black Hills the last couple days of Sept to test em out. Can't wait...

 

I took this question to mean measured eye to eye why is a 13" stock air shock measure 13" while most after market 13" shocks set up measure less than 13"
sorry, I may have missed the answer.

stock air shocks only have compression, aftermarket have both compression and rebound. 1/3 of the stroke is used for rebound and results in a shorter measure eye to eye.

 

Love my Supershox!